Chihuahua Health Issues: 5 Things to Watch Out For

Chihuahuas may be tiny, but their personalities are anything but! They’re one of the most common breeds we care for at our hospital, and our team truly enjoys looking after these lively, lovable companions. We also understand how dedicated their families are to keeping them healthy and happy. 

Like all breeds, Chihuahuas come with their own set of unique health concerns. Here are some of the most common issues we see and how we can help identify and manage them early 

1. Heart Disease 

Chihuahuas can be prone to heart issues, both from congenital conditions and changes that develop with age. One of the most common concerns is chronic valve disease, where the heart valves weaken and begin to leak, making it more difficult for the heart to pump blood efficiently. If left untreated, this can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs, fatigue, and potentially serious complications. 

Because Chihuahuas are small and often live long lives, early symptoms can be easy to miss, such as a mild cough, reduced stamina on walks, or heavier breathing after activity. Identifying these signs early allows us to begin treatment and help your pup stay active and comfortable for as long as possible. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We listen closely for heart murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or breathing changes during your ChiChi’s check-up to determine if additional testing should be done. ● Diagnostic Imaging – Chest X-rays and ultrasound (echocardiogram) allow us to visualize the heart and lungs in detail. These tools are essential for diagnosing heart disease and determining whether long-term medication or ongoing monitoring is needed. ● Electrocardiogram (ECG) – We use this test to detect irregular heart rhythms and monitor electrical activity, which can guide treatment and prevent potentially fatal events. ● Ongoing management – If heart disease is diagnosed, we’ll create a tailored care plan with medication, diet changes, and regular monitoring to keep your ChiChi as healthy and active as possible. 

2. Dental Disease 

Due to their small mouths and closely spaced teeth, Chihuahuas are especially vulnerable to dental disease. Crowded teeth can easily trap food and bacteria, leading to rapid plaque

buildup, gum irritation, and eventual tooth loss. In fact, dental issues are among the most common health concerns we treat in this breed. 

One of the first signs is often bad breath, but as the condition progresses, it can cause pain, trouble eating, and even infections that impact the heart and kidneys. That’s why regular dental care is so important for keeping your ChiChi’s mouth and overall health in top condition. 

How we can help: 

• Oral exam – We check for plaque buildup, alignment issues, and signs of gum infection. We also evaluate for loose, broken, or crowded teeth 
• Dental X-rays – These allow us to see below the gumline where serious issues can hide. X-rays help identify pockets of infection under the teeth, bone loss from the jaw, and damaged roots, which can all cause unrealized pain. This helps the veterinarian determine if any teeth need to be pulled or if infections need additional treatment 
• Professional cleaning – Just like people, Chihuahuas need regular dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar. Dental cleanings under anesthesia performed by a veterinarian are the safest and most effective way to thoroughly clean your Chihuahua’s teeth. This can help prevent the spread of bacteria, protect their airway, and allow the vet to remove any teeth that may be causing problems. This also lets the vet identify issues that aren’t visible during a regular exam 
• Home care guidance – We can recommend brushing routines, dental diets, or safe chews to help maintain your dog’s oral health between visits 

3. Luxating Patella (Kneecap Dislocation) 

Chihuahuas are commonly affected by a condition known as luxating patella, where the kneecap moves out of its normal position. This can cause your dog to suddenly hop, skip a step, or hold one hind leg off the ground while walking. While some dogs show little or no discomfort, others may limp or become hesitant to run or jump. 

Mild cases can often be managed with regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments. However, more severe or painful cases may lead to long-term joint issues and could require surgical correction to restore comfort and mobility. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We carefully assess your dog’s knees, feeling for looseness or abnormal movement of the kneecap. 
• X-rays – Imaging helps us evaluate the severity of the condition and check for signs of arthritis or bone changes.
• Treatment planning – Depending on the grade of the luxation, we may recommend joint supplements, weight management, or surgical correction for long-term relief and mobility. 

4. Collapsed Trachea (Windpipe Weakness) 

Chihuahuas are particularly prone to a condition called collapsed trachea, where the windpipe weakens and partially flattens, making it more difficult for air to flow through. This often causes a distinctive “honking” cough, especially when your dog is excited, pulling on the leash, or after exercise. 

While many cases can be managed with medical care and lifestyle adjustments, untreated tracheal collapse can progress and lead to serious breathing difficulties. Early diagnosis allows us to better control symptoms and help your ChiChi breathe easier and stay comfortable. 

How we can help: 

• Physical exam – We listen to your dog’s breathing and gently check for signs of coughing or throat sensitivity. 
• X-rays – These can help us identify signs of tracheal narrowing or collapse. ● Fluoroscopy – This real-time moving X-ray shows us how the trachea behaves during breathing, helping confirm the diagnosis. 
• Ongoing care – Depending on severity, we may recommend medications, weight management, cough suppressants, or lifestyle changes to reduce airway irritation. 

5. Eye Problems (Dryness, Injury & Pressure Issues) 

Chihuahuas have large, expressive eyes that are more exposed than those of many other breeds, making them especially vulnerable to irritation, dryness, and injury. Their eyes can easily be scratched by dust, debris, or even from rubbing or bumping into objects. 

Watch for signs of eye discomfort such as squinting, pawing at the face, redness, swelling, or discharge. Left untreated, some eye conditions can cause significant pain, vision loss, or permanent damage. Routine eye exams are an important part of protecting your Chihuahua’s eye health and catching problems early. 

How we can help: 

• Fluorescein dye test – We use a gentle, eye-safe dye to detect scratches or ulcers on the surface of the eye. This helps us choose the right treatment to promote healing and prevent infection. 
• Tear test – This measures tear production to screen for Dry Eye, a common condition in small breeds that can lead to chronic discomfort and infection. If diagnosed, we can prescribe long-term medications to manage it. 
• Eye pressure test (Tonometry) – We check the pressure inside the eye to screen for glaucoma, a painful condition that can lead to blindness. If diagnosed, it requires daily

medication to reduce pressure and preserve vision. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. 

We care for your Chihuahua as if they were part of our own family. These small dogs with big personalities deserve the highest quality care to keep them healthy, happy, and thriving. Give us a call at (954) 473-8090 or book an appointment here!